adhesion

Adhesion is the process by which different substances stick together. This occurs at a molecular level, where molecules of one material bond with molecules of another. For example, when glue is applied to paper, the glue molecules cling to both the paper and each other, creating a strong bond. Adhesion is essential in various applications, from everyday tasks like taping items together to scientific processes like how cells adhere to surfaces in biological systems. It contrasts with cohesion, which refers to the attraction between similar substances, such as water molecules sticking together.